How Long Does an Implant Supported Bridge Last?
An implant supported dental bridge is a great option for patients looking to permanently fix a gap caused by two or more consecutive missing teeth. As opposed to a traditional bridge, which is supported between two crowns, an implant supported bridge rests on top of titanium posts implanted directly into the jawbone. In many cases, the implant supported bridge will last a lifetime, but there are many factors that will determine the lifespan of your bridge.
Proper Maintenance of an Implant Supported Bridge
Traditional bridges are typically removed by your dentist or hygienist for regular cleaning. Because implant supported bridges are not as easily removed, it is of utmost importance that you take care to maintain the health of your mouth. You can brush your bridge just like you would your natural teeth, making sure to do so twice every day with a soft bristled toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste. It is important to remove food and bacteria from underneath the bridge as even a small amount of plaque can quickly build up and cause irritation and gum disease.
Regular visits to your dentist are also very important to maintaining the health of your teeth. Both regular exams and professional cleanings will greatly improve the lifespan of your implants and prosthetics. Your dental hygienist will have the proper tools available as well as being able to better access the area around and underneath your bridge in order to keep it clean and healthy.
Overall Health and Well-Being
In order to keep your implant supported, your jawbone needs to remain healthy. The best way to promote good health in the mouth is to maintain good health elsewhere in your body. If your bones weaken or deteriorate, your implant may move about in the jaw, causing the implant to fail. This can be painful and expensive to rehabilitate and may require the implant to be removed entirely. Getting enough exercise and eating a balanced diet is paramount to keeping your mouth healthy as well as the rest of your body. Make sure to eat nutritious meals that include the recommended daily amount of vitamins and minerals, especially calcium and Vitamin D. It is best to avoid sugary and acidic foods as these lead to tooth decay and feed the bacteria that cause plaque.
Preventing Jawbone Atrophy
Another benefit of an implant supported bridge is that the implants help to stimulate bone growth. The implants, which are fused directly to the jaw bone, replace the tooth roots. The pressure from chewing stimulates the area of the jawbone that the implants are sunken into, signaling to the body to send resources to the area of the mouth, keeping it healthy and strong. Without such the pressures caused by biting and chewing, the body will decide that this area does not need nutrients and send them elsewhere, leading to bone loss or shrinkage. It is important for patients with implants to chew on both sides of the mouth (including using the bridge to chew) in order to stimulate bone growth.